Prince William may have attended Royal Ascot solo last week in the absence of his wife, Princess Kate, but he was far from alone. The Prince of Wales, 43, was joined in the royal box by his mother-in-law Carole Middleton, sister-in-law Alizée Thevenet, and several close friends—offering a glimpse into the warm, supportive circle that surrounds him.
According to Dr. Arthur Cassidy, Royal Commentator and Celebrity Psychologist, Carole Middleton’s presence at the event offered more than just familial company—it reflected a deeply reassuring and emotionally grounded bond between her and her royal son-in-law.
“Carole appeared radiant and completely at ease while engaging with Prince William,” Dr. Cassidy observed. “Her joyful demeanor, relaxed mood, and expressive body language—particularly her widened eyes and dilated pupils—signaled an authentic connection and deep affection. It was a moment of pure enjoyment and mutual comfort.”
He described the interaction as a “seal of approval,” with Carole’s body language displaying trust, ease, and positivity. “It’s a clear sign that she finds William’s presence not only comforting but grounding.”
Dr. Cassidy also noted that Prince William himself has long played a stabilizing role within the Middleton family. “He’s a calming presence—not just for Carole, but for the entire family. As the protector and guardian of Catherine and their children, his bond with Carole has always been strong.”
Carole Middleton, a former flight attendant turned successful entrepreneur, founded the party supply business Party Pieces in 1987, running it from her home and growing it into a well-known brand. Although the company was sold in 2023 after entering administration, Carole’s business acumen remains a defining part of her identity.
Dr. Cassidy suggests that Carole’s entrepreneurial spirit and grounded nature have had a meaningful impact on William’s own development. “From the beginning, her charismatic and motivated personality would have appealed to William. She offered him a refreshing and grounded perspective outside of royal life, which helped shape his identity as he navigated the pressures of his role.”
He went on to say that Carole’s experience and wisdom could even influence how William and Catherine envision the future of the monarchy. “Her insight as a businesswoman provides a valuable sounding board. She brings a relatable, real-world perspective that both William and Catherine respect.”
“The Middleton family environment,” Dr. Cassidy added, “offers the perfect setting for fostering psychological and emotional well-being—not just for William, but for George, Charlotte, and Louis too. It’s an essential space for their growth and grounding.”
In many ways, Carole Middleton remains a quiet but steady influence—offering reassurance, perspective, and a sense of normalcy at the heart of one of the most public families in the world.